C12-14 Alketh-12

C12-14 Alketh-12 is a nonionic, ethoxylated fatty-alcohol surfactant used in many water-soluble PEG systems. It's chosen for cleansing, fragrance solubilization, and stabilizing emulsions in shampoos, face washes, and lotions.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A mild cleansing ingredient found in shampoos and face washes.
Category
Cleansing, Emulsifying
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Lifts away oils and impurities while helping formulas feel comfortable on rinse-off, and aids even texture in products so they perform consistently on skin and hair.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in gel cleansers, body washes, and micellar-style lotions to improve wash-off, and also used in lightweight shampoos and makeup-removing cleansers.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally safe in rinse-off formats, but may cause stinging or dryness in sensitive or compromised skin and can irritate eyes. Patch testing is prudent for very reactive users. Avoid prolonged contact if irritation occurs.

Is C12-14 Alketh-12 a Good Ingredient?

This reliable nonionic surfactant and solubilizer cleans and keeps formulas uniform, which supports a solid Good rating. It can be mildly irritating for some, especially at higher levels or in eye-area use, so it's best suited to rinse-off products.